Dolphins are the beginning to show that they are the real deal.
Usually takes dolphins longer than 3 weeks to mature..
Infant bottlenose dolphin calves for example, will suckle for a period up to 18 months, but may stay with their mother up to 4 years. For the common dolphin, the calving period is between 1 and 3 years. Common dolphins become sexually mature at 5 years and their life span varies between 20 to 25 years.
Although they're commonly referred to as "cuties" by all who adore them, baby bottlenose dolphins are actually called "calves." Male dolphins are called "bulls," females are called "cows," and a group is a "pod."